Police Rescue 19 Dogs From Deplorable Miami Home — Four Tiny Puppies Found Trapped Inside a Cooler

A welfare check on an elderly woman in Miami Beach led to a disturbing discovery when police officers found 19 dogs living in severely unsanitary conditions, including four young puppies trapped inside an uncovered cooler.

Officers arrived at a home near North Michigan Avenue and West 43rd Street on October 27, 2026, after the Florida Department of Children and Families requested assistance checking on the elderly resident.

Inside the property, investigators found 15 adult dogs and four puppies, all reportedly living in deplorable conditions. The puppies, believed to be around four weeks old, were discovered inside a cooler contaminated with urine and feces. According to police, they had no access to food or water, appeared lethargic and were unable to climb out on their own.

The condition of the house was also alarming. An arrest report described piles of rubbish, animal waste scattered throughout the home and yard, no electricity and sections of flooring that had caved in. Officers also reported a strong smell of urine and feces throughout the property.

Police identified 50-year-old Jorge Morillo as the man responsible for caring for the animals. Detectives said he had lived at the residence intermittently for approximately five years. During a recorded interview, he reportedly acknowledged his involvement in their care.

Morillo was arrested and charged with one count of animal cruelty. His bond was set at $1,000.

However, after leaving jail, Morillo denied living at the property and disputed that the puppies belonged to him when questioned by CBS Miami.

All 19 dogs were removed by Miami-Dade Animal Services and taken to a county shelter for veterinary examinations and medical treatment. The elderly woman was transported to Mount Sinai Medical Center for further evaluation.

The Miami Beach Building Department subsequently declared the house unsafe for occupancy and issued an order requiring it to be vacated.

Police described the discovery as heartbreaking, particularly the condition of the four puppies. Authorities have emphasized that the investigation involved concerns for both the animals and the elderly woman living inside the home.

The criminal case against Morillo remains ongoing, and the allegations have not yet been proven in court.